Brain Injury Identity Card

A simple solution to a tricky conversation

The Headway Brain Injury Identity Card is designed to help police officers and staff more easily identify brain injury survivors and ensure that they receive an appropriate response and support.

The card can also provide brain injury survivors with added confidence in everyday social scenarios.

Each card is personalised, helping the card holder to explain the effects of their brain injury and request any support they may need.

Apply for a Brain Injury Identity Card

Before you start the application form, please have the following ready:

A passport style photo of yourself, ready to upload to the form. Please ensure:

The photo is in colour

The photo is clear and in focus

The photo is without any creases or tears

You are facing forward and looking straight at the camera

Sunglasses are not worn (prescription glasses are permitted)

You do not have a head covering (unless it’s for religious or medical reasons)

Verification of your brain injury – this could be a letter from a Headway local group or branch or from a clinical professional confirming the brain injury.

Please note: due to a recent increase in the number of brain injury identity card applications received, it may take up to 10 weeks to process your application and send out your ID card.

The card is available to anyone in the UK aged 18 and over who has a verifiable brain injury.

About the Brain Injury Identity Card

Why should I carry a Headway Brain Injury Identity Card?

The complexities of brain injury can make it difficult for people to ask for support. Carrying an official Headway Brain Injury Identity Card can provide you with the confidence to know that if you need help, your needs can be easily identified, whether in social situations, or if you come into contact with police officers or other emergency services.

Who can apply?

The card is available to anyone in the UK aged 18 and over who has a verifiable brain injury. A similar card for children and young people is provided by the Child Brain Injury Trust.

I’m not currently involved with Headway. Can I still apply for a card?

Yes. Anyone living with the effects of brain injury can apply for a card.

Which agencies support the card?

The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), which covers England and Wales, Police Scotland, and the Police Service of Northern Ireland all recognise and endorse this card.

What is the number on the front of the ID card?

This number can be called to request criminal legal advice and/or representation from solicitors trained in understanding brain injury, should you find yourself in a situation where you need this support.

I have never come into contact with the police – is this card for me?

Absolutely! The card can be used in many different everyday social scenarios to help you access any support you may need.

What is required?

Clinical verification of brain injury and a photo are required, as well as some information about how your brain injury affects you.